The Golden Era of the Santa Anita Handicap

1978 Triple Crown winner Affirmed was back in 1979, winning 6 grade I races, including the Santa Anita Handicap. He would be named Horse of the Year for the second year in a row.

Blood-Horse Library

Affirmed took control on the turn, and came home 4 1/2 lengths in front under Laffit Pincay Jr., stopping the clock in 1:58 3/5.

Blood-Horse Library

Spectacular Bid faced a sloppy track, and carried 130 pounds in the 1980 Santa Anita Handicap, but romped by an easy 5 lengths.

Blood-Horse Library

Spectacular Bid and jockey Bill Shoemaker in the dark Winner's Circle after the Santa Anita Handicap.

Blood-Horse Library

John Henry was primarily known as a grass horse before his triumph in the 1981 Santa Anita Handicap.

John Henry and Laffit Pincay Jr. come home in front over King Go Go.

Four Footed Fotos

John Henry (left) was back in 1982. This time ridden by Bill Shoemaker, and carrying 130 pounds, he came up a nose short to Perrault. However, Perrault was disqualified for interference, and John Henry became the first horse to win the Santa Anita Handicap twice.